For the fifth year in a row, Picayune Veterinary Clinic partnered with Crossraods Food Pantry to provide presents to disadvantaged families.
The local clinic started collecting the presents at the office a couple of months ago.
Crossroads Food Pantry Director Sharron Bonnecarrere said the organization will use those toy donations, combined with private donation from members of area churches and two more organizations, to provide gifts to 20 children to make their Christmas a bit brighter. Youth groups from three churches have dedicated their time to not only wrap the gifts for the children, but also serve them during an upcoming pizza party, Bonnecarrere said.
At that party, each child will be given one present they can open before leaving with a bag full of gifts to open on Christmas.
Bonnecarrere said Crossroads Food Pantry is also preparing to provide bags of essentials for senior citizens that will contain a blanket, toiletries, gloves, hats, puzzle books and other items.
She said the organization has more than 30 bags that will be provided to senior citizens without family.